The first snip on the apron strings

Today we went to hear my grandson Austin (age 3 1/2) give his first talk in Primary. He was so darling I could hardly stand it. He stood right up at the podium, looked directly at the audience and spoke into the microphone with great confidence. He delivered a message that hadn't been prepared beforehand - something about children, God, and love (about 15 seconds long). What a great theme! Then just as he was ready to step down, his dad stepped up to help him deliver the prepared message. Another brief, but just as important message about the family. 

It struck me as I sat in the back of the room to watch/listen to him give his talk that that is one of the first times I've really seen Austin from a distance. Usually he is up close and personal with me. I had a tiny glimpse into the future - his independence, and ability to do things all on his own without his parents' help, or my help either. 

I remember that same feeling when I saw my own children from a distance for the first time. It's a little bittersweet. The beginning of the end is here. Although we desire the independence and self-reliance of our children, we love having them close. It is natural for them to move on, just as I did, and every generation before me. As a mother and grandmother, though, I just want to bask in the moments of early childhood and pretend that independence won't really come to pass so quickly.